Other We need a new iPhone mini

[xpxp2002]

This is so unrealistic and delusional. If you put all of those pro features and screen in to a phone that tiny you’ll get about 3 hours of battery life…. The battery you are able to fit in there is pretty small, specially if you’re adding more lenses, etc….. And even if Apple were to somehow pull this off and offer a decent battery life, people still wouldn’t buy it….. the hard truth is that the majority of folks already got used to bigger screens… and the handful of tiny phone enthusiasts on tech forums aren’t going to move the needle. When are we going to finally put this to rest…. It won’t sell, and Apple is not bringing it back.

You clearly read none of my original post that you replied to before spouting off speculation about why you think the mini would not be viable, while failing to address the large screen Plus models that everyone should supposedly want to buy, but was unceremoniously discontinued after the two iPhone release cycles, just like the mini; as well as the Air and its reportedly poor sales that will seemingly lead to its discontinuation after this year's release.

Now, to dispense with the facts. The ProMotion display is actually more power efficient than a display running at a full 60 Hz the entire time because the display can ramp down to 1 Hz when idle.

The ultrawide lens uses as much space as the telephoto. It's a one-for-one swap, no change in the battery size or capacity is involved.

The Pro mini model that I described would have better power efficiency before even factoring in efficiency advancements that all iPhones have gotten with newer A-series SoCs, newer basebands (both, newer Qualcomm, and further efficiencies likely to come with the Apple C2 this year), and any battery technology and firmware-level battery management improvements that were not backported to the 13 mini.

The 13 mini had good enough battery life for millions of buyers to purchase it and enjoy it, anyway. A 17 Pro mini or 18 Pro mini would only be better in every regard, as I outlined above, so there's no reason to suggest that it's "unrealistic" or "delusional" that, among three other monster-sized phones that get released every year, Apple would and should consider offering a single model that fits the needs of millions of people who don't want a literal half pound (8 oz/233g) 7" brick in their pocket.

I don't understand how anyone does not find the Pro Max size and weight objectionably difficult to carry or use one-handed, but to each their own. For some reason, even though the critics got what they wanted and the mini was discontinued three models ago, there's apparently this primitive attraction to every discussion about the mini solely to criticize anyone and everyone who appreciated having or wanting a modern smartphone with that size and weight.

 

[Macdctr]

Personally, I find the 12/13 minis form factor very refreshing and enjoy using mine as a backup iPhone to one of my Pro series/Air iPhones. Regarding the future of having a compact full fledged Pro level mini? I would welcome and love seeing this as one of many options that would be available for sale by Apple.

They make so much profit selling other devices that, even if they lose money selling the mini iPhones, they should easily make up the loss from profits gained from other sales. It would be nice to have a more modern compact iPhone with updates incorporating new pro level processors, 12GB memory, Apple’s C2 possibly and N2 chips and staying with either the 256GB or 512GB storage configuration while adding USB-C (same high data transfer rate as Pro series) and obviously incorporating improved battery technology supporting long lasting operations. Like the 12 and 13 minis, add a bunch of amazing colors for this line. I think this would make for an awesome product and yes, I would buy this over the Fold every time.

 

[Apathist]

I almost bought another 13 mini this weekend.

What held me off is that I just don’t love the 13 mini the same way I loved the SE1.

I still use my original SE at home for phone service with Google Voice and as a mobile payment device for certain amenities in my building.

Late in the model's lifecycle I purchased a Mini from Apple's Refurbished Store, while they were still available, mainly out of fear of missing the buying opportunity. Eventually I swapped out the SIMs and relegated the SE to home service on Wi-Fi. I'll likely regret this eventually, but I opted for the 12 over the 13 based on a preference for the mint green color of the former and rationalized the selection as the logical choice of the thinner and lighter of the two models -- which is technically even true, I suppose. But given that Apple won't be selling another small phone soon, if ever again, I expect purchasing the older device will prove to have been a mistake.

So like you, I'll probably be looking around for a 13, which seems to be the choice almost everyone else on this thread made.

 

[rwh63]

still using my OGSE as my only phone device.

 

[Spinarelo]

You clearly read none of my original post that you replied to before spouting off speculation about why you think the mini would not be viable, while failing to address the large screen Plus models that everyone should supposedly want to buy, but was unceremoniously discontinued after the two iPhone release cycles, just like the mini; as well as the Air and its reportedly poor sales that will seemingly lead to its discontinuation after this year's release.

Now, to dispense with the facts. The ProMotion display is actually more power efficient than a display running at a full 60 Hz the entire time because the display can ramp down to 1 Hz when idle.

The ultrawide lens uses as much space as the telephoto. It's a one-for-one swap, no change in the battery size or capacity is involved.

The Pro mini model that I described would have better power efficiency before even factoring in efficiency advancements that all iPhones have gotten with newer A-series SoCs, newer basebands (both, newer Qualcomm, and further efficiencies likely to come with the Apple C2 this year), and any battery technology and firmware-level battery management improvements that were not backported to the 13 mini.

The 13 mini had good enough battery life for millions of buyers to purchase it and enjoy it, anyway. A 17 Pro mini or 18 Pro mini would only be better in every regard, as I outlined above, so there's no reason to suggest that it's "unrealistic" or "delusional" that, among three other monster-sized phones that get released every year, Apple would and should consider offering a single model that fits the needs of millions of people who don't want a literal half pound (8 oz/233g) 7" brick in their pocket.

I don't understand how anyone does not find the Pro Max size and weight objectionably difficult to carry or use one-handed, but to each their own. For some reason, even though the critics got what they wanted and the mini was discontinued three models ago, there's apparently this primitive attraction to every discussion about the mini solely to criticize anyone and everyone who appreciated having or wanting a modern smartphone with that size and weight.

Because I have normal adult sized hands. The pro max is perfectly comfortable and I can reach every corner with minimal effort. I don’t understand how anyone can get anything done on the tiny screen of the mini in this day and age. It feels unusable to me for today’s media and data consumption.

 

[Macdctr]

Because I have normal adult sized hands. The pro max is perfectly comfortable and I can reach every corner with minimal effort. I don’t understand how anyone can get anything done on the tiny screen of the mini in this day and age. It feels unusable to me for today’s media and data consumption.

As you just posted as the mini does not work for your use. It does not mean the mini is not a solid iPhone for others. You’re free to like and use any iPhone just as much as others who choose to like and use their minis. From my experience using iPhones from the original iPhone 2G to the current 17 Pro, yes I have a Deep Blue 1TB 17 Pro, I prefer to use my Blue Titanium 1TB 15 Pro for my main iPhone and my 13 mini as a backup iPhone. For my use case these iPhones work well for me even though I still have my 17 Pro and Air.

I’m glad to see you’re comfortable holding onto a brick that has a 6.7 to 6.9 inch screen. Not everyone wants this and after getting and using my first 13 mini since December, I can see why people who own and use this device love it so much. For me using the mini brings back my 4S/5S user experience of having a small compact sized phone again. Sometimes that’s all you need. Personally, I have no problem going between the larger screen size to the compact 5.4 inch screen. I have been a Pro Max user ever since my 11 Pro Max and only made the shift into using smaller more compact iPhones in December.

 

[SalisburySam]

They make so much profit selling other devices that, even if they lose money selling the mini iPhones, they should easily make up the loss from profits gained from other sales.

Yeah, no for-profit company does that unless they need a loss leader. With Apple’s market cap and cash on hand, they don’t.

Still rocking our two iPhone13minis though, no immediate change planned.

 

[Spinarelo]

As you just posted as the mini does not work for your use. It does not mean the mini is not a solid iPhone for others. You’re free to like and use any iPhone just as much as others who choose to like and use their minis. From my experience using iPhones from the original iPhone 2G to the current 17 Pro, yes I have a Deep Blue 1TB 17 Pro, I prefer to use my Blue Titanium 1TB 15 Pro for my main iPhone and my 13 mini as a backup iPhone. For my use case these iPhones work well for me even though I still have my 17 Pro and Air.

I’m glad to see you’re comfortable holding onto a brick that has a 6.7 to 6.9 inch screen. Not everyone wants this and after getting and using my first 13 mini since December, I can see why people who own and use this device love it so much. For me using the mini brings back my 4S/5S user experience of having a small compact sized phone again. Sometimes that’s all you need. Personally, I have no problem going between the larger screen size to the compact 5.4 inch screen. I have been a Pro Max user ever since my 11 Pro Max and only made the shift into using smaller more compact iPhones in December.

8.2 oz (233grams) is hardly a brick, unless you have the strength of an 80 year old frail senior

 

[HouseLannister]

8.2 oz (233grams) is hardly a brick, unless you have the strength of an 80 year old frail senior

It's hyperbole, but it could still be lighter. Samsung seems to design lighter phones than Apple at the same size (and the Ultras even include a stylus and still weigh less than a Pro Max).

I think most of the users who want Minis care more about the dimensions than the weight. It's about reachability for short-stubby fingers or an ability to fit in small pockets and purses, not strength.

Plus it's heavier than this brick. 🤣

 

[Alpha Centauri]

I don’t understand how anyone can get anything done on the tiny screen of the mini in this day and age. It feels unusable to me for today’s media and data consumption.

That’s easy to answer. Outside home the Mini is perfect for calls, reading emails, calendar, etc whilst at work. For everything else once home, my 16“ MBP does the rest of what you mention. Any sized iP I’d find painful in comparison.

 

[Spinarelo]

That’s easy to answer. Outside home the Mini is perfect for calls, reading emails, calendar, etc whilst at work. For everything else once home, my 16“ MBP does the rest of what you mention. Any sized iP I’d find painful in comparison.

Fair enough. I rarely use my MacBook unless remoting in to work, and I don’t own an iPad. So I pretty much do everything on my phone, even when home. I need and feel comfortable with the biggest screen possible.

 

[Macdctr]

8.2 oz (233grams) is hardly a brick, unless you have the strength of an 80 year old frail senior

tit for tat . . .

in comparison to the 12/13 mini the Pro Max feels like a brick. Two very different purposes and foot print. You don't have to like anything about the mini and that's okay. It is obvious the mini footprint does not work for you but that does not mean the mini is a bad iPhone. For you perhaps but for others who actually own and use these devices not so much. Unless you actually have owned a mini and used it, even for a backup iPhone, you can and have put your opinions regarding this iPhone but from the perspective of actual users of the mini you're making noise. Hate all you want but like the Air, there are those who love these devices and there's nothing wrong with that.

 

[Spinarelo]

tit for tat . . .

in comparison to the 12/13 mini the Pro Max feels like a brick. Two very different purposes and foot print. You don't have to like anything about the mini and that's okay. It is obvious the mini footprint does not work for you but that does not mean the mini is a bad iPhone. For you perhaps but for others who actually own and use these devices not so much. Unless you actually have owned a mini and used it, even for a backup iPhone, you can and have put your opinions regarding this iPhone but from the perspective of actual users of the mini you're making noise. Hate all you want but like the Air, there are those who love these devices and there's nothing wrong with that.

Tit for tat…..

You don’t have to like the pro max phone, and you can think it’s a brick. But that doesn’t change the fact that it’s an amazing phone that many love and find useful. If it were that unwieldy and cumbersome as you make it seem, it would not sell as well as it does….. I even see many petite females using it just fine

 

[AlanMarron]

8.2 oz (233grams) is hardly a brick, unless you have the strength of an 80 year old frail senior

I’m a 69yo senior and I prefer the lightest of pretty much everything. Comes from decades of motorcycle touring.

If you’re so opposed to choice, get in your time machine and go back to 1976 in the USSR.

 

[freezelighter]

The worst thing is how they manipulate sales figures to hide the real reason they discontinued the iPhone 12/13, which obviously cost less than the bigger models they want to push.

 

[scrane]

iPhone mini: You either like it or you don't.
Unfortunately, not a lot of people like it.

 

[Spinarelo]

I’m a 69yo senior and I prefer the lightest of pretty much everything. Comes from decades of motorcycle touring.

If you’re so opposed to choice, get in your time machine and go back to 1976 in the USSR.

I’m pro choice. It’s the point I’ve been trying to make in my posts. The person I’m replying to makes it seem like the pro max is this horrible brick and people shouldn’t buy it. People should get what they like, but the fact of the matter is that not enough people like the mini, hence why Apple doesn’t make it any more.

 

[scrane]

8.2 oz (233grams) is hardly a brick, unless you have the strength of an 80 year old frail senior

If you're lucky someday you'll be 80.
I'm only 77, but I'll be walking around Cairo for two weeks in May and scuba diving in Indonesia in November. I'll be bringing the 13 mini.
Bop 'til you Drop.

 

[Alpha Centauri]

I don’t notice any difference other than appearance and features. 26.4-dev4 is a very different animal than 26.0! To me, the brighter look has appeal but the fuzzy icons (simulated depth, right?) are still off-putting.

If you like the appearance of 26, I think it’s safe to go in the water.

Thank you. I’ll try to find someone on iOS 26 to play around with it. Otherwise YT I guess.

 

[Alpha Centauri]

I also have multiple 13 minis with some on iOS 17, iOS18 and the current iOS 26.3.1

Out of the iOS running on my 13 minis, I prefer running the current iOS as I’m not having issues running on it. I’m not seeing shorter battery life using my 13 mini under the current iOS as compared to running them under iOS 18.7. It comes down to preference, I like the Liquid Glass effect of the newer iOS.

On a few 13 minis that I have, I have changed out the battery in those devices and have seen solid performance from them since👍🏽

That‘s hopeful and helpful. The UI doesn’t concern me as much as the battery taking a hit from iOS 18 to iOS 26, also potential KB lag with relatively little RAM in the 13 Mini.

My ph peaked with iOS 17. interesting that performance always improved with major releases but issues appearing rather with subsequent dot releases, so being careful with this one way upgrade. But sounds like you’re quite happy with the battery and performance between 18 and 26.

Cheers

 

[turbineseaplane]

still using my OGSE as my only phone device.

I would’ve kept going, except I had bank apps that were refusing to work correctly unless I updated iOS.

 

[xpxp2002]

Because I have normal adult sized hands. The pro max is perfectly comfortable and I can reach every corner with minimal effort. I don’t understand how anyone can get anything done on the tiny screen of the mini in this day and age. It feels unusable to me for today’s media and data consumption.

I don't do much media consumption on my phone, that's what a tablet, Mac, or TV is for. But I think this is valid recognizing that others use their phones for these purposes. Though I will contest whether that inherently characterizes my hands as "abnormal". 🙂

I don't think many people who like the mini's size and weight are arguing that the Pro or Pro Max shouldn't exist. At least, I don't believe that. While I find those larger and heavier models challenging to carry, hold, and use comfortably; there's an argument to be made for their existence just the same.

I think most of us who prefer a smaller iPhone want a device that we find comfortable to hold and carry, and typically use it "as-needed" when on the go to make calls, tap out quick messages, and to use as a music player. It's not a full-on entertainment center replacing a TV at home for us. Nor is it replacing a laptop or tablet for tasks that benefit from a larger screen.

But for a manufacturer as large as Apple, the millions of iPhone minis that they sold still outperformed most of the other smartphone OEMs, besides Samsung. Since Apple seems keen to keep trying and then scrapping various designs every two years, it wouldn't be unreasonable for them to cycle back around to a sub-6" smartphone at least once every 4 years or so.

 

[turbineseaplane]

The iPhones could use some size diversity in the lineup.

They make like four or five models, and they are all in the 6 inch screen range.

It’s nuts.

 

[Alpha Centauri]

Can I just voice a concern on here? I'm on iOS 18 and am beginning to find it quite intrusive/ disgusting of how vehemently Apple pushes upgrading to iOS 26. Not just daily notifications but on occasion twice a day. Makes one think it's on purpose in case folks accidentally hit the upgrade button, trying turn the notification off.

I have never never seen such an extreme push since I started using Macs in 2005. This also happens on MacOS 15 but rather only a few times a week.

I do know the steps of not receiving those notifications on iOS and MacOS but just find these push notifications have gotten so much out of control.

Edit: I did forgot to mention a further gripe about all this. From much research it would appear that IF I was to update my M2 MBP to Tahoe (currently Sequoia) and keep my 13Mini on iOS 18, then I would no longer be able to do a tethered backup in Finder. That effectively, my usual method of backup would only work if both the iP and MBP are on iOS 26 and MacOS 26.

 

[Spinarelo]

I don't do much media consumption on my phone, that's what a tablet, Mac, or TV is for. But I think this is valid recognizing that others use their phones for these purposes. Though I will contest whether that inherently characterizes my hands as "abnormal". 🙂

I don't think many people who like the mini's size and weight are arguing that the Pro or Pro Max shouldn't exist. At least, I don't believe that. While I find those larger and heavier models challenging to carry, hold, and use comfortably; there's an argument to be made for their existence just the same.

I think most of us who prefer a smaller iPhone want a device that we find comfortable to hold and carry, and typically use it "as-needed" when on the go to make calls, tap out quick messages, and to use as a music player. It's not a full-on entertainment center replacing a TV at home for us. Nor is it replacing a laptop or tablet for tasks that benefit from a larger screen.

But for a manufacturer as large as Apple, the millions of iPhone minis that they sold still outperformed most of the other smartphone OEMs, besides Samsung. Since Apple seems keen to keep trying and then scrapping various designs every two years, it wouldn't be unreasonable for them to cycle back around to a sub-6" smartphone at least once every 4 years or so.

Fair enough and a very rational take. Perhaps I was a bit harsh in my wording and I apologize. But some fans of the mini aren’t as rational and they make it seem like having a big phone is a horrible sin lol…… I do agree with you different use cases call for different devices. For example in my case I don’t own a tablet, and I rarely use my MBP, mostly only turn it one when I need to remote in to my work environment….. therefore I do all of my consumption on my phone. I held an iPhone mini the other day and it felt unusably small to me, but I imagine that’s because my brain has gotten so used to PM sized screens at this point.